By Karren Jay G. Asgar & Pastor Edward Pormilos
Members of the CPU NorCal AA in their new Chapter uniforms during their Summer Picnic last June 7, 2025, at Quarry Lake Park in California.
Embracing the vibrant spirit of an active overseas alumni chapter, the CPU Northern California Alumni Association (NORCAL AA) held its Summer Picnic on June 7, 2025, at the scenic Quarry Lake Park in California. A total of 45 participants, proudly donning their new chapter uniforms, attended the event. The gathering brought together Centralians, along with their families and friends, in a day of fellowship and community. This picnic followed the successful “Meet and Greet” with CPU President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, held on March 31, 2025.
The picnic began with a warm welcome from Pastor Edward Pormilos, Chapter President, who greeted all participants, especially the first-time attendees. He provided updates on the Chapter’s recent initiatives, including the vigorous campaign for maximum participation in the upcoming 2025 Toronto Global Reunion. Later in the program, Pastor Pormilos also shared the current status of the Chapter’s Grant-in-Aid program. Launched in 2021, the initiative aims to support the educational needs of deserving yet financially challenged CPU college students, providing ₱5,000 per student annually. For the current school year, 22 students are receiving aid through the support of 13 sponsors. Due to a favorable dollar exchange rate during the fund transfer, a surplus of Php13,770 was donated to the God’s Grace Ministry to aid work students. An accumulated total of 76 sponsorships have been provided since the start of the program four years ago.
Beyond the usual food and fellowship, the event featured fun, family-oriented games led by Vice President Emineh Pacania and Adviser Pat Desales, with special activities dedicated to the fathers. The program opened with a prayer by newcomer Pastor Wilfredo “Dondon” Faldas. FOAA President Lee Plagata also shared updates on Federation affairs and preparations for the upcoming Global Reunion. In anticipation of Father’s Day the following weekend, Adviser Kathy Kriewall led a heartfelt prayer for the fathers. She also facilitated a rehearsal of the Chapter’s presentation for the Global Reunion after the program.
Assistant Secretary Rebecca Diana managed the registration, while PIO Tex Pelopero coordinated the production of the new polo shirt uniforms from Iloilo and designed the online promotional flyer. His wife, Kristle, created video reels of the event to complement the still photographs and preserve memories. Assistant PIO Carlo Pineda organized an online poll to help attendees coordinate the food they would bring. Rocky and Del Gasacao provided the public address system, while Katherine Pormilos oversaw the event’s decorations and table setup.
During the closing, Assistant Auditor Loren Delicana acknowledged the participation and contributions of everyone. She also took charge the food set-up. Pastor Richard Pacania led the Closing Prayer. The program was hosted by Auditor, DG Delicana.
The Bayanihan spirit was fully displayed through the services provided, such as setting up and packing up, as well as the generous sponsorships of items needed for the event, especially the prizes for games as sponsored by Kathy Kriewall, Pat Desales, Mildred Cababaan, and Marah Rafols.
It was truly a meaningful day marked by warm embraces, laughter, kata-kata (storytelling), teamwork, games for both the young and the young-at-heart, social dancing, and joyful food fellowship. The Central Spirit radiated throughout the event, making it a memorable celebration for all.